This is your opportunity to learn the basics of astronomy and astro-physics in a fun and exciting environment. Star Dome Astronomy for Middle School Teachers uses all the resources of a planetarium to introduce you to fundamental concepts of the Universe. Learn to identify and locate the brightest constellations. Track and follow the planets: from their prograde curves to their elegant retrograde loops. Discover the physics of how stars work and how elements form. This course combines the mythological tapestry of the sky with the science of planetary motions and stellar astronomy. The objective of this course is to provide you with a comprehensive overview of astronomy. Parts of each session are conducted in our star dome theatre at the USM Southworth Planetarium, so you can observe the simulation of the night sky itself. Other topics will include spaceweather (meteors, aurora, comets, and asteroids) and some deep space-time concepts such as the Big Bang and Black Holes.